Tennessee residents will be able to hunt without a license on Saturday, Aug. 22, which also marks the opening day of squirrel season. Free Hunting Day is an annual event provided by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) in hopes of increasing interest in hunting.
Squirrel hunting is one of Tennessee’s oldest and favorite traditions. The day serves as an excellent opportunity for people to experience the enjoyment of the sport. The TWRA encourages regular hunters to introduce friends and family members (young and old) to the outdoor sport. It also provides an excellent opportunity for individuals who have been away from hunting to reconnect with the sport.
On Free Hunting Day, state resident hunters are exempt from hunting licenses. Many of the WMAs are open to hunters seeking public access. Hunters are required to ask for permission to access private lands. A hunter’s bag limit is 10 squirrels a day from the opening day of squirrel season through March 15, 2027. Hunters are asked to check the 2026-27 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Guide for specific WMA and hunting regulations.
Hunter education requirements are not waived for Free Hunting Day. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1969, is required to have completed a hunter education course. An Apprentice Hunter Education Permit is required if the hunter education course has not been completed. This permit exempts the hunter from the mandatory hunter education law for one year from the date of purchase but may only be purchased for up to three consecutive years during the lifetime of the hunter. Youth under 10 years of age do not need a Hunter Education certificate but must be accompanied by an adult at least 21 years of age who must remain in a position to take immediate control of the hunting device. Visit www.tnwildlife.org to complete hunter education online or find a listing of scheduled classes.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.
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